John Edward Mortimer (2 July 1930 – 2 September 1992) was a British scriptwriter for British TV whose work, along with creative writing partner Brian Cooke, also served as inspiration for American television projects.
[2][3] He started out as a cartoonist, which brought him into contact with his writing partner Brian Cooke.
[4] Mortimer later wrote series for radio such as The Men from the Ministry and Round the Horne, before writing many TV situation comedies including Foreign Affairs, Father, Dear Father, Man About the House, Never the Twain, Robin's Nest and George and Mildred, often working in partnership with Cooke.
Versions of Man about the House, George & Mildred and Robin's Nest were later adapted as Three's Company, The Ropers and Three's A Crowd respectively.
[2] Mortimer lived in East Molesey, Surrey, and died there on 2 September 1992, at the age of 62, leaving an estate worth £1.2 million.